A Legacy Since 1906

Since its grand opening on April 6, 1906, the El Rey Theater, originally known as the Majestic Theater, has been a cornerstone of the Chico community. As one of the oldest cinemas in the United States, its debut performance by the Abbott & Bryant Opera Company, presenting “The Two Vagabonds,” marked the beginning of a rich cultural legacy.

Built by the Elk’s Hall Association to serve as a meeting space for Elk members, the theater was leased out for vaudeville performances and films. Over the years, it has hosted renowned entertainers like Al Jolson and Harry Lauder, cementing its place as a key venue for both local and touring acts.

The original facade of the El Rey Theater was an exquisite example of Neo-Classical Revival architecture, once hailed as the “finest structure of its kind in Northern California.” Its design boasted ornate cornices, arched windows, and sculptural enrichments, reflecting a blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and Classic styles. The theater changed hands several times and eventually became known as the National and then the American, yet the architecture remained largely unchanged until 1946.

Rising from the Ashes: The 1946 Fire and Renovation

On October 24, 1946, tragedy struck the El Rey Theater, then known as The American, when a fire ravaged its interior. The early morning blaze drew 500 onlookers and required the efforts of all the town’s firefighters, who battled the inferno for three hours. Although the cause was never determined, the damage was extensive.

Despite this setback, the theater’s owners vowed to rebuild. Their commitment to the community and the cultural significance of the theater led to an extensive renovation. In 1948, the theater reopened as the El Rey, a name inspired by a marquee sign that survived a fire at another theater. The grand reopening featured the Abbott and Costello comedy “The Noose Hangs High,” with tickets at just 65 cents. The new layout removed the second and third floors and made way for 975 stadium-style seats, ensuring better viewing.

Mesmerizing Fairy Murals: Captivating the Audience

A highlight of the renovation was the addition of stunning murals by artist Martin Ravenstein of Carmel. With the help of Chico State art students, including James Seaton, Ravenstein adorned the plaster walls and ceilings with whimsical scenes of fairies, flowers, and elves in vibrant landscapes. These celebrated murals add a unique charm to the theater, enhancing its historic and aesthetic value. The murals remain a vivid memory for all those who have entered the space.

Change in the Early 2000s

In the last decades of the 20th century, the theater was a mainstay in Chico. Locals still recall the lines around the block to see “Jaws” or “Star Wars,” and when Jane Fonda promoted “On Golden Pond” in 1982. Later, it became a boutique theater showing cult classics and midnight movies. However, it couldn’t compete with the popularity of multi-screen cinemas, and the Regal Entertainment Group eventually put it up for sale.

Since 2005, various owners have had different visions for the theater, including transforming it into office, retail, or parking space. The current owners transformed the space into a performance venue, updated the sound and lighting, and replaced all the seats. Whenever the theater was in jeopardy, Chico residents rallied together, petitioned the City Council, and raised funds to preserve this beloved landmark.

Where We Are Now: Rallying to Save a Treasure

The El Rey Theater is once again at a crossroads, and this time, the stakes are higher than ever. The beautiful murals inside are at risk due to a leaky roof and lack of climate control, causing the plaster to deteriorate. This historic gem needs our help, and the Save the El Rey Project is stepping up to the challenge.

We are on a mission to purchase and preserve this iconic theater, transforming it into a vibrant community space for future generations. The El Rey is more than just a building; it’s a treasure trove of Chico’s memories, from its vaudeville days to civic events and live performances. By joining the Save the El Rey Project, you are not just saving a piece of history—you are investing in the cultural heartbeat of our community.

Historic buildings like the El Rey Theater add character, charm, and economic vitality to our town. They attract tourism, boost local businesses, and enrich our cultural fabric. Together, we can protect this vital piece of Chico’s heritage and ensure that the El Rey Theater remains a vibrant part of our community for generations to come.

Take action now! Join us in preserving a space where history, culture, and community converge. Let’s rally together to save the El Rey Theater and create a legacy that will inspire and connect people for years to come. Your support can make all the difference. Let’s keep the magic alive!